The Fae once roamed the world, sharing the same space and resources as humans until they absolved themselves of the primitivity humans were. Elaaria is a realm sitting atop the Earth realm, and the Guardians of the Gates heavily monitor its entrances, though humans are aware of their existence. So it is a surprise when a human stumbles through one. Sofia is a girl like no other. She tumbles through the Gate beaten bloody and her clothes full of holes, yet she stands tall in front of the "welcoming committee." Sofia seeks to remain in Elaaria, leaving behind the one that brought his fist upon her skin.Except, the Travail has made its annual appearance, leaving the entire realm in bated breath. Prospective Champions are pouring in to brave the Edge, the forest they must traverse through to have a chance at the job of dreams. Either you can become a Guardian of the Gates with the freedom to wander between the realms or become one of the Elite Guards who protect the Fae Royalty, the Sidhe.Sofia is taken into custody as she is falsely accused of harming a Fae. Her punishment? Being sent to the Edge to prove her worth of being permitted to stay within Elaaria. With no prior training, her likelihood of surviving is slim. Except, once she steps into the Edge, things take a turn for the worse. Much worse than she would have ever imagined. Instead of conquering the Edge, she now faces much more sinister plots. Including the underhanded schemes of overthrowing the Sidhe's throne with brutal assassination plans. Now, Sofia must fight to rescue the lives of those who may condemn her for being human.The Travail has begun; let the race to the Throne begin.